Attention turns to Jeddah as Gulf Cup returns to Saudi Arabia

Jeddah is preparing to host the major Gulf event as preparations for the 27th Arabian Gulf Cup, 'Gulf 27', are complete. The tournament will take place from September 23 to October 6, 2026.

The Gulf Cup returns to Saudi Arabia in Jeddah after its inception in 1970, with the capital Riyadh having hosted the competition four times in 1972, 1988, 2002, and 2014.

The current edition has a special significance as it is the first time that Jeddah hosts the Gulf Cup, amidst arrangements aimed at providing an organizational experience that reflects the development of infrastructure and Saudi expertise.

The local organizing committee has completed various preparations for the tournament, making Jeddah ready to welcome teams, fans, and journalists, and to provide a comprehensive experience both inside and outside the stadiums.

The visual identity of 'Gulf 27' draws its features from the historical rawashin that characterize historic Jeddah, in a design that combines the architectural heritage of the city with the sporting nature of the Gulf championship.

The King Abdullah Sports City and Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Sports City will host the tournament matches, featuring Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, Iraq, and Yemen.

The organizing committee aims to expand the participation of national talents in various roles, from match and crowd management to welcoming fans, transportation, hospitality, media, marketing, logistics, and technical operations.

The tournament provides practical opportunities for Saudi talents to gain experience in organizing major sporting events, enhancing their readiness for upcoming challenges and competitions.

The Gulf 27 tournament consists of 15 matches, while the impact of hosting the event extends to the hotel, restaurant, café, transport, retail, hospitality, and tourism services sectors in the city of Jeddah.